TThe Northern Cape, bordered by Namibia and Botswana, is the largest of South Africa’s nine provinces (it takes up about a third of the entire country) and is very sparsely populated. In some areas it is possible to drive for hours without coming across any people.

Its sparse desert landscape and spectacular open spaces are especially appreciated at night – with no light pollution, the night sky is ideal for astronomy enthusiasts.

Northern Cape

TThe lure of the Northern Cape is definitely its natural attractions, which include the annual Namaqualand wildflower display in spring (late August/September), the spectacular Augrabies Falls and the winding oasis that is the Green Kalahari. Further north is the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, home to the magnificent Kalahari lion.

Its rugged terrain also makes it ideal for 4x4 adventurers, while the Orange (Gariep) River is ideal for river-rafting enthusiasts.

The province is steeped in history and culture, so encourage your clients to take the time to explore some of its many unique museums, like the Windmill Museum in Loeriesfontein; or to go on a ghost tour in Kimberley.

It is also home to the Richtersveld World Heritage Site, home to the Nama, a semi-nomadic group of people who have followed the same seasonal migratory pattern for thousands of years.

The Northern Cape's capital, Kimberley, has air and rail links with most of the major cities in South Africa, which makes it easy to get there or travel around the province.

TTop attractions

The Big Hole and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier ParkThe Big Hole in Kimberley is the world’s largest hand-dug excavation. Created by miners during the diamond rush of the 1870s, it has an estimated depth of 214m and a perimeter of 1.6km. Next to the Big Hole is the Kimberley Mine Museum, with a replica of the city from the diamond-rush days. Further north in the province, you will find South Africa’s second-largest national park, the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, which spills over into Botswana.

Main city

KimberleyKimberley, the City of Diamonds, came into existence with the diamond rush of the 1870s. It is the capital city of the Northern Cape and is steeped in history and culture. It is now a modern hub with malls, art galleries and restaurants.